igneous
Granite
Intrusive Igneous Rock
Hardness of 6 on the Mohs scale, composed mainly of quartz, alkali feldspar, and plagioclase. Color varies widely from pink to gray depending on its chemistry and mineralogy, with a phaneritic (coarse-grained) texture and vitreous to dull luster.
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Physical properties
Hardness of 6 on the Mohs scale, composed mainly of quartz, alkali feldspar, and plagioclase. Color varies widely from pink to gray depending on its chemistry and mineralogy, with a phaneritic (coarse-grained) texture and vitreous to dull luster.
Formation & geological history
Formed from the slow cooling of magma rich in silica and alkali metal oxides beneath the Earth's surface, often associated with continental crust and mountain-building events.
Uses & applications
Widely used in construction, architectural buildings, countertops, paving stones, and monuments due to its durability and aesthetic appeal.
Geological facts
Granite is the most common igneous rock in the Earth's continental crust. Because it cools slowly beneath the surface, large crystals have time to form.
Field identification & locations
Easily identified by its visible interlocking crystals of quartz (clear/gray), feldspar (pink/white), and biotite mica (black). Found globally in continental shields and mountain ranges.
